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Doctor Strange #2 Review: Brisk Pacing and Gorgeous Art

Doctor Strange is a slave on an alien world. He is made to serve the species and spends his night in a jail cell. He is still unable to tap into the magical energies he once held mastery over. A mysterious woman claiming to be an "arcaneologist" is dropped in the cell with Strange, and she has a plan for a way out. Can she help Stephen access magic again?

Doctor Strange #2 cover by Jesus Saiz
Doctor Strange #2 cover by Jesus Saiz

Doctor Strange under Mark Waid and Jesus Saiz is already showing a pacing and expertise which few other comics have matched in the past. This chapter in the story—that is Stephen being trapped on this alien world—already reaches a conclusion in this issue (spoiler I guess?)

I had a sinking feeling that this was going to be a multi-issue arc concluding in three or four months. It's refreshing to see it conclude so soon.

This feels like a humbled Doctor Strange too. His cell mate, Kanna, is brimming with personality, but Stephen can't bring himself to match witticisms, only asking her information which they can use to escape.

The main flaw is the effort and time the comic spends to flesh out the Gryndans even though said information doesn't pay off in any measurable way.

Doctor Strange #2 art by Jesus Saiz
Doctor Strange #2 art by Jesus Saiz

Jesus Saiz's artwork is brilliant once again, giving a texture and realism to the visuals while still giving a distinct shot of stylism. Strange and Kanna look like you could reach out and touch them. The Gryndans and Kanna have a good visual design. The color art is bright and eye-catching. The entire book looks fantastic.

Doctor Strange #2 shows a restraint and understanding of what makes for a good series. The story wraps up this step of the cosmic adventure and introduces a new and charismatic character. Plus, Saiz delivers phenomenal artwork. This one earns another recommendation. Give it a read.



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Joshua DavisonAbout Joshua Davison

Josh is a longtime super hero comic fan and an aspiring comic book and fiction writer himself. He also trades in videogames, Star Wars, and Magic: The Gathering, and he is also a budding film buff. He's always been a huge nerd, and he hopes to contribute something of worth to the wider geek culture conversation. He is also happy to announce that he is the new Reviews Editor for Bleeding Cool. Follow on Twitter @joshdavisonbolt.
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